I just purchased a 1999 Ranger XLT and the key to unlock the spare tire, was broken inside the key hole! Has anyone found an alternate route to dropping the tire? The tire is actually out so maybe I can detach the mechanism.

 

drill out the lock. It'll just be a hole but you'll be able to access the winch without a problem. had to do it on my 99 back when i had it

 

when i first got my 2000, it was missing the spare tire key. initially, i searched about it online and found a guy on ebay that would cut new keys according to the number that is stamped on the lock. i ordered one of those and it ended up breaking the 2nd or 3rd time i used it. i got smart and finally drilled it out like already suggested.